Stories 2025.02.07
Bridging Textiles and Tradition: Kasthall and Astrid Forge a New Future Together
In a significant move that unites heritage craftsmanship with innovative design, Kasthall, the esteemed rug maker with a legacy spanning 135 years, teams up with Astrid, a celebrated Stockholm-based interior textiles company. Under the ownership of the Network of Design (NOD), this strategic acquisition by NOD marks an exciting new chapter for both brands, promising a collaborative future rooted in creativity, quality, and sustainability.
A Growing Market for Genuine Craftsmanship
The global markets for rugs and textiles are on the rise, with increasing demand for authentic materials and superior craftsmanship. Both Kasthall and Astrid are well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. Already during the initial meetings between Kasthall and Astrid, the two companies have explored synergies that can be leveraged for future success. Their partnership is not merely a strategic alignment but rather a shared conviction that textiles can dramatically transform spaces.
Heritage Meets Modern Design
Kasthall is writing a new chapter in its 135-year journey, staying true to its values by combining the visions of contemporary designers with its rich heritage of rug making. This mission—to carry the company’s legacy forward for future generations—continues to evolve with exciting new stories. Authentic materials have been at the heart of Kasthall since its inception in 1889 when it began making woven and tufted rugs in its Kinna factory using premium wool and linen. This approach is mirrored by Astrid, founded in 2003 by Anna Boustedt, which centers on utilizing the finest fabrics in various textures and colors to elevate interiors from hotels to private homes.
Both companies recognize that they thrive in each other’s company. Mirkku Kullberg, the CEO of Kasthall since September 2024, expresses excitement about the collaboration, emphasizing the importance of their shared commitment to authentic materials and timeless design. “These principles are more vital than ever,” she states, mirroring Anna Boustedt’s passion for transforming spaces with carefully chosen textiles.
Unlocking New Opportunities
The acquisition allows Astrid to tap into Kasthall’s extensive global network, which includes showrooms in cities such as Stockholm, Malmö, New York, and Milan. This expanded reach positions Astrid to accelerate its growth and explore new projects while enhancing Kasthall’s offerings through complementary textiles.
“For Astrid, this partnership is an exciting step towards strengthening our international presence and enabling collaboration with like-minded designers and architects,” highlights Boustedt. Her vision centers on merging Astrid’s vibrant fabrics with Kasthall’s renowned rugs, ultimately enriching the world of textile-driven design.
A Mutual Commitment to Design Excellence
The synergy between the two firms is palpable. During their initial meetings, Mirkku and Anna discovered a shared vision and passion for design, indicating that both brands would be stronger together. This partnership will be formally introduced at the upcoming Stockholm Design Week and Stockholm Furniture Fair, where they plan to showcase a unique intersection of their respective design philosophies.
Therese Hillman, CEO of NOD, expresses her enthusiasm for the close operational relationship between the newly merged entities. She notes, “This combination allows for a better offering to the existing Kasthall pipeline and will drive growth for both companies.”
Looking Ahead
As Kasthall and Astrid embark on this collaborative journey, the teams are actively engaging to ensure a seamless integration. Their combined expertise and innovative spirit promise to reshape the landscape of interior textiles and design, attracting a broader audience eager for elevated design experiences.
The future for Kasthall and Astrid is not merely about growth but about together transcending the ordinary in interior design—a true celebration of craftsmanship, creativity, and commitment to sustainability. With the excitement of new possibilities on the horizon, this partnership is set to make waves in the industry, demonstrating how two distinct voices can harmonize to create something truly remarkable.